Kayakers in yellow lifevests, paddling through the bright tall mountains in alaska with snow off in the distance
Explorers with red lifevests navigating through the icy still waters next to the run off of a large glacier off in the distance
Areal view of Prince William Sound in Alaska, teal water surrounded by snow topped mountain range
A close up portait of a tan and brown furry otter in alaska with a surprise expression and long white whisters,
Hikers walking in a line through the grassy hills of alaska with tall pine trees in the distance
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North America Alaska Cruise

Prince William Sound Explorer

Experience the endless glaciers and islands of Prince William Sound on this 8-day round-trip Anchorage adventure cruise. Navigate a full 360° along the least visited shores in coastal Alaska, home to the densest concentration of tidewater glaciers. Natural wonders of bays, coves and deep fjords comprise the prized seacoast region and offers the perfect combination of diverse wildlife and dramatic scenery.

In a place of breathtaking beauty, visit dozens of glaciers including Chenega, Columbia, Meares and Sheridan, plus College and Harriman glacial fjords. Get up close to spectacular waterfalls and be out on the deck to witness possible glacier calving. A special visit to the tiny fishing village of Cordova, only accessible by air or water, allows you to take in the Copper River or Sheridan Glacier via a guided tour, or opt for a challenging hike up a local ski hill.

With activity options aplenty, kayak and skiff through glacial waterways lined with icebergs and discover the sculpted islands of Knight and Montague by beachcomb or hike. The calm and gentle waters of Prince William Sound provide the perfect opportunity to try stand-up paddleboarding, or enjoy kayaking and skiff rides. Seals and seabirds welcome you to the land of big ice and big mountains. Guides keep watch to help spot wildlife like whales, orcas, eagles, puffins, sea otters, seals and sea lions.

One vessel operates this 8-day itinerary, the 36-guest Safari Explorer, which provides an intimate, adventurous experience voyaging into the tiniest nooks that other vessels can’t reach. Built on a unique reputation for adventure, this boat pampers her guests with a three-to-one guest/crew ratio, fresh and healthy meals, experienced expedition leaders/naturalists who know Alaskan culture and topography, high-end expedition gear, plus a wide variety of excursions to suit any activity level.

Read on for details about this trip, or view all of AdventureSmith’s Alaska trips and small ship Alaska cruises.



Itinerary

Prince William Sound Explorer with Cordova Itinerary

Explore the islands of Prince William Sound on this 8-day adventure cruise that cruises round-trip from Seward, Alaska, with included scenic transfers linking Anchorage.

route map of small cruise ship route prince William sound explorer highlighting each stop and sights along the way
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Day 1
Arrive Anchorage & Embark Seward, Alaska

Welcome to Seward, the gateway to Prince William Sound! Your transfer will meet you at the airport in Anchorage, whisk away your luggage, and drive you and your fellow adventurers to Seward. Meet your crew and tour your ship, a flagship vessel and your home for the week. After champagne and a safety demonstration, enjoy your first of many farm-to-table gourmet meals! Adventure, here you come.

Accommodations

Safari Explorer

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Icy Bay Glaciers

Wake up in the glacial waterways of Icy Bay. Flowing down from the 4,000-foot surrounding peaks, Chenega, Tigertail and Tiger glaciers are all options this morning. Hop in a skiff, and if conditions are right, kayak in a remote cove tucked into the shoreline. The expedition team shares how glaciers sculpt and alter the landscape on a daily basis. Feel the essence of this land of the Chenega people, meaning “beneath the mountain,” while weaving through these deserted islands by kayak, skiff and yacht.

Accommodations

Safari Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Captain’s Choice

Tuck into the southern reaches of Prince William Sound, exploring its sculpted islands. Some call it “gunkholing”—nosing around the next cove—and there’s plenty to see. Search for whales, seals, sea lions and seabirds from the bow or opt to kayak or beachcomb for a closer look at island life with natural and cultural history notes from the guides.

Accommodations

Safari Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Cordova

Cordova, a tiny fishing town only accessible by air or sea, is quintessentially Alaska. Explore on your own or join your shipmates on a walking tour of to see the mouth of the Copper River. Or you can choose to accompany your guides for a day below the Sheridan Glacier. For those looking to adventure all out, race your guides to the top of the EYAK ski hill on a hard charger hike. Finally, enjoy the landscape before settling back on board for a quiet overnight anchorage.

Accommodations

Safari Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
Columbia Glacier

Options aplenty this morning. Hike, kayak, skiff, or try stand-up paddleboarding in a quiet cove before a hearty lunch back on board. Next up: towering icebergs born from the approaching Columbia Glacier. The ship winds its way 32 miles back through Chugach Mountains and with constantly changing conditions, the captain finds the best route to view this massive glacier.

Accommodations

Safari Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
Unakwik Inlet & Meares Glacier

Arctic terns and bald eagles, harbor seals resting on icebergs and the massive Meares Glacier as a backdrop, Unakwik Inlet is the perfect place to dip a paddle in the water for a kayak. Or, join a skiff tour to get farther, faster, in glacier country. This is wilderness at its wildest. Feel the mountains closing in while cruising through Esther Passage. View a fish hatchery and learn about Alaska’s salmon species. Tonight, join the expedition leader for an interpretive presentation before a relaxing soak in the hot tub under the fading sun.

Accommodations

Safari Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
Ester Island Hatchery & Barry Arm Glaciers

Step ashore at Esther Island to tour a working salmon hatchery and learn how millions of fish are raised and released to support wild runs. Take a short walk to a nearby lake and return to the hatchery to watch for bears fishing along the stream.

In the afternoon, cruise through Barry Arm where towering glaciers spill from the mountains into the sea, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities.

Accommodations

Safari Explorer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
Disembark Seward & Return to Anchorage, Alaska

Enjoy one last breakfast with new friends before boarding the coach transfer from Seward along Turnagain Arm on the way back to Anchorage. Transfer back to the Anchorage airport.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard vessel; onboard meals; premium wine, beer and liquor (excludes super-premium wines), non-alcoholic beverages; transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embarkation/disembarkation day; entry fees to national parks/preserves; all from-the-vessel activities and equipment; exclusive activities and shore visits; wellness amenities; presentations by onboard expedition/heritage guides and guest experts; taxes and port fees (2027).

Exclusions

Airfare to and from your home city; discretionary gratuities to vessel’s crew; travel insurance and insurance of any kind; optional excursions and land tours; excess baggage charges; items of a personal nature; taxes and port fees of $375 per person (2026).

Payment & Cancellation

For bookings made on or after October 1, 2025
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
121 days or more – 50% of deposit
120 to 91 days – 50% of total trip cost
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

For bookings made up to September 30, 2025
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 days or more – 100% of deposit (transferable to a Future Travel Certificate)
90 to 61 days – 67% of total trip cost
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Prince William Sound Explorer with Cordova cruise begins and ends in Anchorage, Alaska (ANC). Plan flights to arrive to Anchorage by 1:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Anchorage no earlier than 2:00pm on Day 8.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include whale watching, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, morning yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing, wildlife observation and polar bear plunges. Limited quantities of hiking poles, binoculars, mud boots and rain gear are available on board. To ensure availability and fit, we encourage you to bring your own gear.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy at 150-175% of the per-person listed rate; special triple- and quad-occupancy rates may also be available in select cabins. Call AdventureSmith for more details, as availability and rates vary by ship and cabin category.  

Families & Children

Kids 8 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 7 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval. Save $500 per child, ages 8 to 17, with the exception of holiday departures.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

May 15 - May 22, 2026
Safari Explorer • 8 days
From $10800USD
Per Person
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May 22 - May 29, 2026
Safari Explorer • 8 days
From $10800USD
Per Person
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Jun 19 - Jun 26, 2026
Safari Explorer • 8 days
From $10800USD
Per Person
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Jul 17 - Jul 24, 2026
Safari Explorer • 8 days
From $10800USD
Per Person
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Aug 14 - Aug 21, 2026
Safari Explorer • 8 days
From $10800USD
Per Person
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May 21 - May 28, 2027
Safari Explorer • 8 days
From $11200USD
Per Person
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May 28 - Jun 04, 2027
Safari Explorer • 8 days
From $11200USD
Per Person
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Jun 25 - Jul 02, 2027
Safari Explorer • 8 days
From $11200USD
Per Person
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Jul 23 - Jul 30, 2027
Safari Explorer • 8 days
From $11200USD
Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Mid-Sized Cruiser
Safari Explorer

This adventurous motor yacht embodies an ambiance of refinement and relaxation, with just 36 guests. The Safari Explorer cruises the Hawaiian Islands, Alaska's Inside Passage. and the Gulf of Alaska.

Deal

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires April 30th, 2026
Save Up To 10% On 2027 Alaska Cruises

Early birds secure the savings. Book your 2027 Alaska cruise now to receive 10% off.

Expert Reviews

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Taylor Cranney • May 31st, 2024
Expert Aboard: Safari Explorer Review

From Hawaii to Alaska this vessel offers year-round exploration and adventure. Get an experts firsthand take on their favorite cabins and tips for getting the most out of your experience aboard.

Justin Massoni • September 4th, 2025
Expert Review: UnCruise Alaska

All you need to know before you take an Alaska UnCruise. Read this review to hear from an expert’s eye what sets this operator's cruises apart from others in Alaska.

Testimonial

Hear It From Travelers Who Have Explored With Us Before

"Best Way To Experience Alaska"

We went on a Glacier Bay Cruise with AdventureSmith previously and really enjoyed it...and enjoyed the opportunity to explore Cordova this time. Absolutely everyone working on board the Safari Explorer was amazing! Can't say it enough - they truly made our vacation a wonderful experience...definitely think small ship cruising is the best way to experience Alaska.

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Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

Choose from a variety of other AdventureSmith Alaska trips to extend your journey, combine cruise itineraries, or opt for a cruise extension with your fellow passengers on this cruise.

The Prince William Sound Explorer itinerary can be combined with the Alaska’s Coastal Treasures Cruise for an epic 20-day expedition operating between Anchorage and Juneau with no repeated landing sites. Please inquire with an Adventure Specialist for further details.

The 2026 Denali Adventure by Rail & Trail with Fairbanks is a post-cruise escorted land tour featuring a hosted day in Fairbanks, wilderness lodge stays in Denali National Park and Talkeetna Mountains, and hotel overnights in Fairbanks and Anchorage. This tour takes you through the Talkeetna Mountain and Denali National park by coach, rail and trail, and provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, kayaking and panning for gold. This land package aligns with Saturday cruise departures; cruises departing on other days require additional hotel night(s). This extension begins operation on May 30, 2026 and the final departure is September 5, 2026; June 6 and August 22 departures are unavailable.

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7 - 8 Day Land Tour
Alaska Wildland Collection

The 7- or 8-day Alaska Wildland Collection is a seamless Alaska adventure promising remote and in-depth exploration of the Kenai Peninsula for up to 10 or 16 guests. Easy access from Anchorage, short travel times, fun activities and special youth rates make this a great family travel option.

From $4995USD
May Jun Jul Aug
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6 - 7 Day Land Tour
Alaska Bear Camp Adventure

On this multiday bear viewing adventure, enjoy exclusive access to a safari-style deluxe tent camp on a remote and private parcel of land frequented by coastal brown bears. Live amongst the bears and take guided forays into the surrounding wilderness, returning to a conservation-minded camp with hot showers, real beds and gourmet meals.

From $8995USD
Jun Jul Aug Sep
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8 - 9 Day Land Tour
Denali Backcountry Explorer

Spend 3-4 nights at a remote backcountry lodge situated 90 miles inside Denali National Park. Unbeatable wildlife viewing, landscape photography, guided hikes, fishing, dog sleds and an Alaska railroad ride can be customized to complement any Alaska small ship cruise.

From $7125USD
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